Work With Us

Hourly Rate

$16.03

Hours

Flexible shifts including weekends and holidays between the hours of 8:30am and 5:15pm.

Duties

Provide exceptional guest service that transforms a day at the Aquarium from ordinary to extraordinary.

• Greet all guests in line of sight with a smile, a verbal greeting, and approachable friendliness.
• Direct guests through the entry process. Scan admission tickets, check photo IDs, stamp member hands.
• Assist guests in a friendly and positive manner by using your knowledge of Aquarium offerings, prices, membership, directions and general information.
• Occasionally sell tickets, in person, through FocusPoint ticketing system for various activities offered at the Aquarium including, Aquarium admissions, boat trips, memberships. Receive payment by cash, credit cards or vouchers. Issue receipts, refunds or change due to guest.
• Be familiar with the Aquarium’s story – history, accomplishments and future goals.
• Go beyond what is expected – deliver personal experiences that inspire, delight, and engage.
• Project a professional image while in uniform.

Preferences

Outstanding customer service skills; completion of at least two years of high school; enthusiastic, motivated and enjoy working with people; cash handling experience; excellent written and verbal communication skills; have ability and willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

Requirements

Applicants must be able to work flexible shifts including weekends and holidays and be available to work between the hours of 8:30am and 5:15pm. This is a position that requires the applicant to stand for long periods of time, it is not a seated position. Shifts will include working outdoors even during inclement weather.

How to Apply

​Send a resume by email to VAMSCGSO@virginiaaquarium.com , or by mail to:

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. This position will be employed through Abacus Staffing Services.

The Virginia Aquarium is looking for individuals with a love of the natural world and a desire to inspire others to take action to conserve the marine environment. Successful candidates will be comfortable engaging individuals and large groups and are capable of bringing the energy and enthusiasm necessary to create memorable experiences for our guests.

Salary

$15.45/hour

Hours

Will vary but will include weekends and some evenings.

Duties

• Provide exceptional and memorable experiences for all Aquarium guests through daily conservation-driven conversations, programs, and scientific demonstrations in key engagement areas throughout the exhibit galleries.
• Support other educational engagement opportunities such as special before and after-hours events.
• Assist guests with customer service needs within the exhibit galleries.
• Mentor teen and adult volunteers to help them improve their content knowledge and engagement skills.

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• Any combination of college coursework and work or volunteer experience equivalent to two years that includes science or education studies or teaching in an informal learning environment.

Preferences

Work or volunteer experience at an informal education site (aquarium, museum, zoo, etc.); customer service experience; excellent verbal presentation skills to communicate effectively with guests of all ages; ability to handle tasks independently and with attention to detail.

How to Apply

Send a resume, cover letter, and two references to Dorothy Schetzel, Guest Engagement Supervisor.

Email:

DSchetz@VirginiaAquarium.com (Include Guest Engagement Educator in the subject line)

or

Mail to:

Dorothy Schetzel
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451

Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted.

Hourly Rate

$15.45

Hours

20-40 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Duties

Keep the Aquarium looking and operating great!

• Support the Aquarium’s building and facilities needs by responding to calls and requesting maintenance using a work order database, performing minor repairs, and supporting projects
• Provide professional level communication and support to aquarium staff, city maintenance teams, contractors, and vendors
• Greet all guests with a smile, a verbal greeting, and approachable friendliness
• Always project a professional image while in uniform
• Ability to handle multiple tasks by priority
• Survey the Aquarium to confirm work completion, and report maintenance needs
• Research vendors and suppliers for materials and projects
• Perform paint touch ups
• Must be able to write and communicate clearly
• Able to follow detailed instructions both verbal and written
• Able to lift 50 pounds, climb, stretch, work in tight spaces
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions

Preferences

High school diploma and experience with building maintenance, customer service, database use, word processing, Excel, hand tool use and building repairs. Flexible work schedule. Provide enthusiastic support to maintenance personnel, contractors and aquarium staff. Ability to work in the occasional fast paced stressful situation. Great listening skills. Great organizational skills. Self-starter with strong work ethic.

To Apply

Send your resume and cover letter via email to CSinger@VBGov.com . Or mail to:
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

If selected, applicants will be hired through Abacus Staffing Services.

Hourly Rate

$15.45

Hours

15-32 hours per week, Monday-Friday

Duties

• Transport animals and program materials safely to outreach locations
• Deliver engaging, age-appropriate presentations to diverse audiences
• Present live animal encounters or animal artifacts confidently and safely, following animal welfare and handling protocols
• Communicate with outreach point of contact to ensure program satisfaction
• Adapt programming in real time to meet group needs, age levels, and energy levels
• Model excellent customer service and represent the aquarium positively at all times
• Assist with basic administrative tasks such as attendance tracking, feedback collection, or supply inventory as needed
• Ensure animal welfare, participant safety, and positive guest interactions
• Promote teamwork and collaboration within the Education department

Requirements

• Valid drivers license
• High school diploma

Preferences

Experience with children, interest in animals or science, customer service, speaking in front of groups, and a positive attitude make an ideal candidate. Ability to provide excellent customer service and follow safety guidelines is required. Reliability, flexibility with scheduling, and a willingness to learn are essential; prior experience with children’s programs and outreach is a plus but not required.

To Apply

Send your resume and cover letter via email to Programs@VirginiaAquarium.com .

Or mail to:
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

If selected, applicants will be hired through Abacus Staffing Services.

The Virginia Aquarium’s Veterinary Science & Research Division is now accepting Acquisitions and Quarantine intern applications for summer 2026. The application deadline is March 1, 2026. Notification of acceptance will occur no later than April 1, 2026. The internship start date is flexible, starting between May and June. Please note that this is an unpaid experience, and the Virginia Aquarium does not provide intern housing. Interns are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit.

Responsibilities

Assist with aquatic husbandry and maintenance at Virginia Aquarium’s Marine Animal Care Center. This will include:

• Marine and freshwater specimen collection (seine net, hook and line, dip net, trawl net, etc.).
• Disease recognition and treatment of marine and freshwater fish,
• Water chemistry testing and treatment,
• Food preparation, feeding aquatic animals, cleaning habitats, system maintenance, and repair.
• Involvement with various marine mammal and sea turtle stranding activities and participation in various field research projects.

Qualifications

• Current student or recent college graduate with coursework in biology, marine science, fisheries science, or related field.
• A strong career interest in fisheries management, aquaculture, public aquarium management, or marine science.
• Previous field and/or laboratory research and small boat handling experience are a plus.
• Must be able to work in extreme environmental conditions for up to 8 hours.
• Must have the ability to lift 50 pounds.

Position Requirements

Based on school requirements.

Internship Learning Objectives

Based on school requirements.

Intern Schedule

The schedule is flexible, with a minimum requirement of 2-3 days a week.

Minimum Commitment Required

This internship has a minimum requirement of 8 weeks.

Intern Supervisor/Mentor

Acquisition, Quarantine, & Boat Operations Manager.

Work Location

Virginia Aquarium’s Darden Marine Animal Conservation Center is the base site. The location of activities will vary.

Application Requirements

A complete Acquisition & Quarantine Intern application packet must include the following components. Only complete application packets will be considered.

• A cover letter detailing how the internship experience will assist with career or academic goals.
• Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center internship application form.
• Two letters of recommendation; one must be an academic reference.
• Resume.
• College Transcript(s).

Completed Application Packets

Email the completed application packet to:

Interns@VirginiaAquarium.com and copy JThompso@VirginiaAquarium.com . Please put "A&Q Intern Application Packet" in the subject line.

The Virginia Aquarium’s Guest Engagement Section is accepting applications for Guest Engagement Interns for summer 2026. The application deadline is February 28, 2026. Notification of acceptance will occur no later than March 15, 2026. The internship start date is dependent on the University's semester dates. Interns are expected to complete 400 hours. Please note that this is an unpaid experience, and the Virginia Aquarium does not provide intern housing. Interns are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit.

Position Overview

The Guest Engagement Intern will work with the Virginia Aquarium education team to develop, implement, and evaluate engaging educational activities that focus on fun, educational content, and create a positive, inclusive learning environment accessible to all audiences.

Activities will be field-tested throughout the semester for Aquarium visitors. The final presentation will take place at programs and events, including Sharks After Dark adults-only evenings, Sensory Friendly mornings, early learning programs, pop-up Science on the Go programs, Mermaids! Special Event, and Grab Go Show bags. This internship offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in education and guest engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Curriculum Development: Contribute to the creation and development of engaging educational activities and programs.
• Program Implementation: Assist in the execution of educational programs, ensuring smooth delivery and a positive learning experience for all participants.
• Guest Engagement: Interact with guests of all ages, providing informative and entertaining experiences.
• Evaluation: Help assess the effectiveness of educational programs and activities, providing feedback for improvement.
• Inclusive Learning Environments: Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where all guests feel valued and engaged.

Intern Learning Objectives

• Facilitate teamwork through positive actions and activities.
• Deliver a formal report of the experience that includes insight and knowledge gained that can be shared with the education staff in an informal presentation.
• Develop and implement early learning activities that encourage the exploration of nature and science through play for a young audience.
• Facilitate programs designed to share core conservation messages that are easy for all guests to understand.
• Create opportunities for a wide age range of children, including pre-kindergarten and school-aged children, to explore and learn about nature at the key engagement areas in the Aquarium.
• Develop Grab Go Show bags to compliment messaging at key engagement areas including Rays, Upland River, and Sharks.
• Conduct evaluations on programming and activities offered to ensure educational goals are met.
• Work with staff to ensure guests’ needs are met with excellent customer service.

Skills You'll Develop

• Communication Skills: Effective communication with diverse audiences, including children, adults, and groups with varying needs.
• Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with colleagues, volunteers, and guests.
• Creativity: Developing innovative and engaging educational activities.
• Organization and Time Management: Juggling multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Problem-Solving: Adapting to unexpected situations and finding creative solutions.
• Develop fundamental engagement skills and test strategies for informal environmental education communication.
• Gain programming and facilitation skills by overseeing the entire program planning process.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in all aspects of work.

This internship provides a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience in education, conservation, and guest engagement. It's a great way to enhance your resume, network with professionals in the field, and make a positive impact on the community.

Intern Schedule

The internship schedule is flexible to accommodate classes and work obligations.

Minimum Commitment Required

400 hours.

Intern Supervisor/Mentor

Guest Engagement Supervisor.

Work Location

Virginia Aquarium’s Main and South Buildings.

Application Requirements

A complete Guest Engagement-Community Engagement Intern application packet must include the following components. Only complete application packets will be considered.

• A cover letter detailing how the internship experience will assist with career or academic goals.
• Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center internship application form.
• Two letters of recommendation; one must be an academic reference.
• Resume.
• College Transcript(s).

Completed Application Packets

Email the completed application packet to: Interns@VirginiaAquarium.com and copy DSchetz@VirginiaAquarium.com and CMWither@VirginiaAquarium.com .

Please put "Guest Engagement Intern Application Packet" in the subject line.

The Virginia Aquarium’s Guest Engagement Education Division is now accepting Watershed Warrior Intern applications for summer 2026. The application deadline is February 28, 2026. Notification of acceptance will occur no later than March 15, 2026. The internship duration is flexible between May 4 and August 23, 2026. All internships are unpaid, and the Virginia Aquarium does not provide intern housing. Interns are fully responsible for fulfilling all requirements of their home institutions to receive academic credit.

Position Overview

The Watershed Warrior Intern will be responsible for helping develop and implement the 2026 Watershed Warriors program. The focus will be on developing and implementing fun educational content and activities on the importance of the local wetlands and watershed. Interns will serve as role models for diverse youth volunteers and mentor them to positively engage guests at the Virginia Aquarium.

Duties

• Develop station activities and engagements that highlight the importance of watersheds and the role they play in conservation.
• Engage a wide variety of audiences at the Aquarium to educate them on how they can take action to protect their local watersheds.
• Supervise and mentor Watershed volunteers to ensure a positive, fulfilling experience for them and guests at the Virginia Aquarium.
• Train and coach Watershed volunteers to engage guests while communicating Watershed-specific educational content.
• Work with Guest Engagement staff to ensure guests' needs are met with excellent customer service.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program or have graduated within the last 12 months.
• Must be comfortable working in an outdoor, hot, and humid environment.
• Must have the ability to stand for long periods.
• Must be familiar with salt marsh environments and inhabitants.
• Must be comfortable getting wet and muddy.
• Must be self-motivated, articulate, mature, reliable, responsible, and work well independently, as well as with a team.
• Must have the ability to maintain a high energy level in varying conditions.
• Must have good communication skills and be comfortable with public speaking.
• Must enjoy working with individuals of all ages.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred but not required.

Intern Learning Objectives

• Develop fundamental engagement skills and test strategies for informal environmental education communication.
• Gain supervisory and mentoring skills with a diverse adult and youth volunteer team.
• Facilitate teamwork through positive actions and activities.
• Deliver a formal report that includes insight and knowledge gained to be shared with the education staff in an informal presentation.

Intern Schedule

The Watershed Warriors program occurs on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Interns are expected to be available at these times - schedule to be determined.

Intern Supervisor/Mentor

Guest Engagement Educator III and the Watershed Warrior program lead.

Work Location

Virginia Aquarium’s South Building, Nature Trail, and Watershed Exhibit.

Application Requirements

A complete Watershed Warrior Intern application packet must include the following components. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.

• A cover letter detailing how the internship experience will assist with career or academic goals.
• Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center internship application form .
• Two letters of recommendation; one must be an academic reference.
• Resume.
• College Transcript(s).

Completed Application Packets

Email the completed application packet to:

Interns@VirginiaAquarium.com and copy EEAlt@VirginiaAquarium.com and MIWright@VirginiaAquarium.com . Please put "Watershed Warrior Intern Application Packet" in the subject line.

The Virginia Aquarium Veterinary Services division offers an opportunity for a graduate veterinarian looking to specialize in aquatic animal medicine through a Veterinary Internship in Aquatic Animal Medicine.

Applicants for this paid, grant-funded internship should be graduates of an AVMA accredited college of veterinary medicine, should have successfully passed the national veterinary medicine exam, and must possess a current license to practice as a veterinarian in the state of Virginia or be licensed in another state. Applicants must also be eligible to obtain licensure with the Virginia Board of Veterinary Medicine upon hire. Learn more and apply through the City of Virginia Beach.

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is currently accepting applications for the Conservation Programs Batten Fellowship. The application period will remain open through March 1, 2026. This fellowship requires a commitment of 400 hours over a consecutive three-month period, typically running from May to August at a pay rate of $15.45 per hour. Please note that housing is not provided, and fellows are responsible for meeting all requirements from their home institutions to secure academic credit.

Position Overview

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Conservation Programs Fellow to support the integration of critical conservation messaging across our diverse educational and public engagement programs. The Conservation Programs Fellow will play a vital role in enhancing the impact of the Virginia Aquarium's public programming by systematically developing, evaluating, and integrating clear, actionable conservation messages. This position is ideal for an individual passionate about environmental education and effective science communication.

Responsibilities

• The Fellow will be responsible for the following tasks:
  Program Assessment & Evaluation: Conduct a thorough assessment of existing educational programs, including:
  • Sensible Seafood
  • Keeper Talks
  • Science on the Go
  • Watershed Warriors
  • Programming at key engagement areas across both buildings.
  • The goal of the evaluation is to determine the current inclusion, if any, of conservation messages and action items provided to the general public.
• Conservation Research & Synthesis: Research and compile information on the current conservation programs and initiatives actively supported by the Virginia Aquarium.
• Message Development: Identify and formulate key, audience-appropriate conservation messages and action items derived from the Aquarium's initiatives that can be incorporated into public programming.
• Integration Support: Assist in developing strategies and content to integrate the new or refined conservation messaging into the identified educational programs and public presentations.

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be a rising junior, recent graduate, or currently enrolled in a graduate degree program in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Conservation, Education, Communications, or a related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of conservation principles and challenges.
• Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex scientific information into clear public messages.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and meet deadlines.

Position Requirements

• Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.
• Pass a City of Virginia Beach background check.
• Be available to work during the Aquarium’s operating hours, 9:00am-5:00pm daily, which includes weekends and holidays.

Fellowship Learning Objectives

• Gain practical experience in formal and informal environmental education settings.
• Contribute directly to the Virginia Aquarium’s mission of conservation.
• Opportunity to work with professionals in education, animal care, and conservation.
• Enhance a professional portfolio with concrete examples of program development and communication strategy.
• Gain supervisory and mentoring skills with a diverse volunteer team.
• Facilitate teamwork through positive actions and activities.
• Deliver a formal report of your experience that includes insight and knowledge gained, to be shared with the education staff in an informal presentation.

Fellow Schedule

Fellow is expected to be available 4-5 days per week, between 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

Fellow Supervisor/Mentor

Karen Burns, Vice President of Conservation.

Work Location

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.

Application Requirements

A complete Batten Fellowship application packet must include the following. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.

• Cover Letter: Clearly state the specific Batten Fellowship opportunity for which you are applying. Please note any known schedule conflicts, as there is some flexibility with the Fellowship's start and end dates.
• A Fellowship Expectations letter. This should detail what you expect to do and gain from your experience.
• Resume
• College Transcript(s)
• Two letters of recommendation. One must be an academic reference.

Completed Application Packet

If applying via email, please send the application to KPBurns@VirginiaAquarium.com . Please type “Conservation Programs Fellowship” in the subject line. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.

If mailing, please send your completed application packet to:

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Boulevard
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
Attn: Karen Burns – Conservation Programs Batten Fellowship

Position Overview

Empower the next generation of marine educators! The Virginia Aquarium is now accepting applications for the Watershed Warriors Batten Fellowship. We're seeking an inclusive role model to mentor diverse youth docents at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. This pivotal role will equip young leaders with the skills to connect with diverse audiences and foster a passion for marine conservation.

This unique opportunity offers:
Impactful Experience: Work 400 hours over three months (May/June-August) to make a tangible difference in marine and environmental conservation.
Professional Development: Gain valuable skills in education, public engagement, and environmental science.
Financial Compensation: Earn $15.45 per hour for your dedication and hard work.

Please note housing is not provided. Fellows are responsible for fulfilling academic credit requirements with their home institutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement educational station activities that promote watershed conservation and environmental stewardship, highlight the importance of watersheds, and inspire conservation actions.
• Engage diverse audiences, including families and children, through hands-on activities, guided tours, and other educational initiatives.
• Collaborate with staff to provide excellent customer service.
• Empower teen volunteers to deliver exceptional educational experiences.
• Engage a wide variety of audiences at the Aquarium and educate them on how they can take action to protect their local natural areas and watersheds, with messages that are easy for all guests to understand.
• Supervise and mentor Watershed volunteers to ensure a positive, fulfilling experience for them and guests at the Virginia Aquarium.
• Train, mentor, and coach volunteers to engage guests while communicating Watershed and Aquarium-specific educational content.
• Facilitate additional team-building exercises and programs for the Watershed Warrior volunteers to build their skills and retain their interest in the organization.
• Conduct evaluations on programming offered to ensure education goals are met. Evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs and make data-driven recommendations.

Required Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be a rising junior, recent graduate, or currently enrolled in a graduate degree program in Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Conservation, Education, Communications, or a related field.
• Must be self-motivated, articulate, mature, reliable, and responsible.
• Must be physically fit with the ability to lift 50 lbs. and stand for long periods of time outdoors.
• Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.
• Be available to work during the Aquarium’s operating hours, 9:00am-5:00pm daily, which includes weekends and holidays.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrate interest in a career in environmental education and/or science communication.
• Have experience mentoring and coaching volunteers or students in the noted age group.
• Have excellent communication skills.
• Be comfortable talking to guests and providing good customer service.

Fellowship Learning Objectives

• Develop fundamental engagement skills and test strategies for informal environmental education communication.
• Gain supervisory and mentoring skills with a diverse volunteer team.
• Deliver a formal report of your experience that includes insight and knowledge gained that will be shared with the education staff in an informal presentation.

Fellow Schedule

Fellow is expected to be available 4-5 days per week, between the hours of 9:00am-5:00pm. Weekend and holiday coverage is expected.

Minimum Commitment Required

400 hours.

Fellow Supervisor/Mentor

Watershed Warriors Program Coordinator.

Work Location

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Application Requirements

A complete Batten Fellowship application packet must include the following. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.

• Cover Letter: Clearly state the specific Batten Fellowship opportunity for which you are applying. Please note any known schedule conflicts, as there is some flexibility with the Fellowship's start and end dates.
• A Fellowship Expectations letter. This should detail what you expect to do and gain from your experience.
• Resume
• College Transcript(s)
• Two letters of recommendation. One must be an academic reference.
  

Completed Application Packet

If applying via email, please send the application to KPBurns@VirginiaAquarium.com . Please type “Watershed Warriors Batten Fellowship” in the subject line. Incomplete application packets will not be considered.

If mailing, please send your completed application packet to:

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
717 General Booth Boulevard
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
Attn: Karen Burns – Watershed Warriors Batten Fellowship